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Benton Heights, MI — Benton Charter Township is proud to announce the groundbreaking of the Euclid Avenue Park on December 4th at 2:00pm, a new 10-acre community park that will provide residents of Benton Heights with accessible, high-quality outdoor recreation opportunities.
The project is funded through a $1,000,000 Michigan Spark Grant, a partnership between the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), designed to support historically under-resourced and underrepresented communities. Additional funding of $12,800 for park amenities such as picnic tables and trash receptacles is provided by the Frederick S. Upton Foundation.
The new park will include a playground, pavilion with grills and picnic tables, concrete pathways, a crushed limestone walking trail, and landscaping. Located within walking distance of the Benton Heights residential area, the park will serve over 700 children and nearly 300 seniors, as well as families seeking a place for outdoor recreation and community gatherings.
Extensive community feedback helped guide the planning process, ensuring the park reflects local priorities and needs. Additional partners in the project include the Berrien Community Foundation, New Heights CCDA, Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, MSCA Group, Inc., and Mugen Construction.
Confirmed speakers at the groundbreaking event:
- Cathy Yates, Township Supervisor
- Lisa Cripps-Downy, Berrien Community Foundation
- Chris Britton, New Heights CCDA
Invited guests include: MDNR, Council of Michigan Foundations, Berrien County Commissioners, and Representative Joey Andrews.
“Euclid Avenue Park represents a major investment in the health and well-being of our community,” said Cathy Yates, Township Supervisor. “We are excited to create a welcoming space where residents of all ages can connect, play, and enjoy the outdoors.”
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